Since the Fall of 2020, the Greater Salem Rotary Club has amped up its support of the 5 New Hampshire towns it serves. "Even though we were limited in certain activities, the Club decided that we needed to kick it up a notch with our support," said Club President Chris Adams. The Club decided to extend direct help to groups and residents impacted during the past year. This support came in the form of direct grants to provide fuel assistance, grocery store gift cards, food for the holidays and gift baskets. The Club also purchased personal protection equipment for local police and fire departments. The Club also provided 20,000 masks that were distributed throughout the community.
Importantly, these efforts involved cooperation with local groups and businesses. For example, the Club worked with local energy companies to identify people who needed fuel to stay warm. The Club also negotiated discounts with the companies so the donations had even more impact.
In total, the Club expended more than $37,000 to support these efforts. Adams explained, "Our Club is fortunate to be in this position. We don't see these as expenses but rather as investments in our local communities."
The need did not change when the calendar rolled into 2021. To further aid the local communities our Club dedicated another $15,000 for fuel assistance grants. The Club continues proactively to identify community needs and deliver funds to ensure people stay warm, well-fed and physically secure during these challenging times.